Congress is made up of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate has 100 members, two from each state. The House of Representatives has 435 members, apportioned among the states based on their population.
Congress meets in Washington, D.C., and is organized into various committees and subcommittees that specialize in different areas of policy. The committees hold hearings, draft legislation, and make recommendations to the full chambers.
When a bill passes both the Senate and the House, it is sent to the president for signature. If the president signs the bill, it becomes law. If the president vetoes the bill, Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote of both chambers.
In addition to making laws and overseeing the executive branch, Congress also plays an important role in shaping public policy. Through hearings, investigations, and debates, Congress can raise awareness of important issues, scrutinize government actions, and influence the course of public debate.
Congress also plays a role in international relations. It must approve all treaties and other international agreements negotiated by the president, and it has the power to declare war and authorize the use of force.
In short, the United States Congress is a powerful institution with a wide range of responsibilities and duties. It is essential to the functioning of the federal government and plays a vital role in shaping American democracy.